Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Petaluma, CA

Photo of Amber Bruno, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94953  (Online Only)
Several modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and others are integrated into treatment depending on the client need.
In need of a safe place to process a new or ongoing challenge? I am here to support you.
Several modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and others are integrated into treatment depending on the client need.
In need of a safe place to process a new or ongoing challenge? I am here to support you.
(707) 610-1503 View (707) 610-1503
Photo of Roberta Vinck, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roberta Vinck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I use talk therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, ALPHA-STIM, hypnosis, & Eye movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma, and PTSD.
Are you anxious/depressed, overthinking, and not sleeping well? I was waking up at 3 a.m. and not being able to go back to sleep until I discovered ALPHA-STIM, It uses safe and effective Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation to dramatically reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. One of my clients was able to cut back on medication. If you would like to use ALPHA-STIM along with therapy, give me a call. You can try it and see for yourself how effective it is. You can also look it up on the internet for further information and clarification.
I use talk therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, ALPHA-STIM, hypnosis, & Eye movement Desensitization & Reprocessing for trauma, and PTSD.
Are you anxious/depressed, overthinking, and not sleeping well? I was waking up at 3 a.m. and not being able to go back to sleep until I discovered ALPHA-STIM, It uses safe and effective Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation to dramatically reduce anxiety, insomnia and depression. One of my clients was able to cut back on medication. If you would like to use ALPHA-STIM along with therapy, give me a call. You can try it and see for yourself how effective it is. You can also look it up on the internet for further information and clarification.
(707) 549-6850 View (707) 549-6850
Photo of Dr. Melissa Pumper, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Pumper
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94975
I am certified in EMDR, a highly effective treatment for trauma and stressful experiences, and I frequently integrate the skills-based treatments of DBT and CBT for improved coping.
Have you endured abuse, a near death experience, unexpected loss, or highly stressful events that you feel like have changed you? Are you feeling on edge and struggling to relax, focus, and feel interested in things you used to enjoy? I'm glad you found me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides therapy for adults in California. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and pregnancy and postpartum related concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, empowering alliance through which I will compassionately encourage you to process your experiences and help you to feel like yourself again.
I am certified in EMDR, a highly effective treatment for trauma and stressful experiences, and I frequently integrate the skills-based treatments of DBT and CBT for improved coping.
Have you endured abuse, a near death experience, unexpected loss, or highly stressful events that you feel like have changed you? Are you feeling on edge and struggling to relax, focus, and feel interested in things you used to enjoy? I'm glad you found me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides therapy for adults in California. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, and pregnancy and postpartum related concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, empowering alliance through which I will compassionately encourage you to process your experiences and help you to feel like yourself again.
(707) 744-3893 View (707) 744-3893
Photo of Erin R Hagler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin R Hagler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I utilize different therapeutic modalities depending on what issues I am working on with the client, including DBT, CBT and ACT.
Hi, my name is Erin and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for working with teens, families and adults. I believe good therapy stems from a therapeutic relationship that fosters warmth, compassion, non- judgement and a sense of safety that allows you to show up as you are knowing that you will be met with acceptance. My therapy work with teens focuses on connecting and identify their strengths, while develop coping skills to better manage their mood and improve quality of life. I work with teens and parents helping them better understand one another and giving parents the tools to support their child.
I utilize different therapeutic modalities depending on what issues I am working on with the client, including DBT, CBT and ACT.
Hi, my name is Erin and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for working with teens, families and adults. I believe good therapy stems from a therapeutic relationship that fosters warmth, compassion, non- judgement and a sense of safety that allows you to show up as you are knowing that you will be met with acceptance. My therapy work with teens focuses on connecting and identify their strengths, while develop coping skills to better manage their mood and improve quality of life. I work with teens and parents helping them better understand one another and giving parents the tools to support their child.
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Photo of Jason Cory Newman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Cory Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94954  (Online Only)
My background with DBT, CBT and Narrative approaches allows clients to not feel shame but to embrace their own true self.
I have had the pleasure of working extensively using strength based therapy to adolescents and young adults. My training and passion has allowed me to work with the Queer (LGBTQIA+) population with an emphasis on Gender Affirming Therapy. I have intensive background in CBT and have been trained by the Linehan Institute on comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, both skills groups and DBT for individuals. My ideal clients are teenagers to young adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, grief, impulse control, and life transitions. Specialize with Transgender and nonbinary clients and justice involved youth.
My background with DBT, CBT and Narrative approaches allows clients to not feel shame but to embrace their own true self.
I have had the pleasure of working extensively using strength based therapy to adolescents and young adults. My training and passion has allowed me to work with the Queer (LGBTQIA+) population with an emphasis on Gender Affirming Therapy. I have intensive background in CBT and have been trained by the Linehan Institute on comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, both skills groups and DBT for individuals. My ideal clients are teenagers to young adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, grief, impulse control, and life transitions. Specialize with Transgender and nonbinary clients and justice involved youth.
(707) 383-0862 View (707) 383-0862
Photo of Malia Hanna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malia Hanna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
We have all, at one point or another, found ourselves in a place of feeling confused, angry, depressed, worried, betrayed, or abandoned and need a place to feel safe, supported, and accepted. I am dedicated to providing this space for you and assisting you in navigating life's troubled waters. Together we can heal the parts that may feel "broken" and "lost." I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills.
We have all, at one point or another, found ourselves in a place of feeling confused, angry, depressed, worried, betrayed, or abandoned and need a place to feel safe, supported, and accepted. I am dedicated to providing this space for you and assisting you in navigating life's troubled waters. Together we can heal the parts that may feel "broken" and "lost." I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills.
(707) 737-9820 View (707) 737-9820
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Dragonette, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Dragonette
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
I have deep experience utilizing ACT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness-Based treatments for anxiety, trauma recovery and depression.
As humans, it is natural to experience periods of intense difficulty, particularly when feeling overwhelmed by competing demands or relationship patterns that are no longer effective. Therapy can be a resource to help navigate healthy and authentic relationships, restore life balance, calm anxious thoughts, and regain overall wellbeing. I believe that we teach others how to treat us, and that setting effective and graceful boundaries is an attainable goal. When emotions become overpowering, our tendency is to avoid them, yet they provide important information that can be used to inform and move toward the life you want to live.
I have deep experience utilizing ACT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness-Based treatments for anxiety, trauma recovery and depression.
As humans, it is natural to experience periods of intense difficulty, particularly when feeling overwhelmed by competing demands or relationship patterns that are no longer effective. Therapy can be a resource to help navigate healthy and authentic relationships, restore life balance, calm anxious thoughts, and regain overall wellbeing. I believe that we teach others how to treat us, and that setting effective and graceful boundaries is an attainable goal. When emotions become overpowering, our tendency is to avoid them, yet they provide important information that can be used to inform and move toward the life you want to live.
(707) 309-0851 View (707) 309-0851
Photo of Claudia Sánchez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Sánchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94954
I often use Strength-Based Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, mindfulness meditation, stress management, time management skills, and social skills training.
Hello, my name is Claudia E. Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to counseling is client centered. I've been a therapist for 16 years and have always strived to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for clients. I work with adults who are going through anything from daily stress to PTSD due to a chronic history of trauma and abuse. My work has been primarily with underserved populations including Spanish-speaking communities.
I often use Strength-Based Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, mindfulness meditation, stress management, time management skills, and social skills training.
Hello, my name is Claudia E. Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to counseling is client centered. I've been a therapist for 16 years and have always strived to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for clients. I work with adults who are going through anything from daily stress to PTSD due to a chronic history of trauma and abuse. My work has been primarily with underserved populations including Spanish-speaking communities.
(707) 314-3649 View (707) 314-3649
Photo of Winchell Quan, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Winchell Quan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952  (Online Only)
Teaching and facilitating Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills has helped me maintain a non judgmental stance and understanding with clients.
I believe how we perceive and response to daily interactions effects the relationship with ourselves and others. These moments, whether you are experiencing joy or discomfort are opportunities for personal growth; practicing kindness and compassion to all. I assist clients with learning and practicing mindfulness; paying attention to the present moment, enabling them to see clearly what is needed in the moment to make wise choices. These choices and actions will help them overcome the obstacles keeping them from the life they seek.
Teaching and facilitating Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills has helped me maintain a non judgmental stance and understanding with clients.
I believe how we perceive and response to daily interactions effects the relationship with ourselves and others. These moments, whether you are experiencing joy or discomfort are opportunities for personal growth; practicing kindness and compassion to all. I assist clients with learning and practicing mindfulness; paying attention to the present moment, enabling them to see clearly what is needed in the moment to make wise choices. These choices and actions will help them overcome the obstacles keeping them from the life they seek.
(707) 901-7996 View (707) 901-7996
Photo of Sandy Peace, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandy Peace
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94975  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
(707) 329-3338 View (707) 329-3338
Photo of Jennifer Brazinsky Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Brazinsky Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I specialize in EMDR and EFT (emotional freedom technique/tapping) and also utilize DBT and CBT skills.
As a therapist, I am primarily focused on the treatment of trauma, and would be honored to work with you on your journey to healing. In addition, I greatly enjoy helping those struggling with Adult ADHD gain new skills. When we improve coping and change maladaptive patterns, we can notice a shift in all aspects of our lives--relationships, work, health, and our own sense of well being. I want you to know there is help and that we can work collaboratively to help you find more peace in your life.
I specialize in EMDR and EFT (emotional freedom technique/tapping) and also utilize DBT and CBT skills.
As a therapist, I am primarily focused on the treatment of trauma, and would be honored to work with you on your journey to healing. In addition, I greatly enjoy helping those struggling with Adult ADHD gain new skills. When we improve coping and change maladaptive patterns, we can notice a shift in all aspects of our lives--relationships, work, health, and our own sense of well being. I want you to know there is help and that we can work collaboratively to help you find more peace in your life.
(707) 820-2330 View (707) 820-2330
Photo of Nina Mason, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to best fit the unique needs of my clients; including ACT, DBT, relational, narrative, and cognitive approaches, in addition to play, sand tray and art therapy techniques.
It takes so much strength and courage to reach out and ask for help; for yourself, your child or your family. I care deeply about creating a safe, trusting non judgemental space for you to be able to explore, reflect, have some relief and feel better. I believe in a fully collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy and will join you wherever you are in your journey. I specialize in working with children, teens and adults going through challenging/pivotal life transitions. I have a special passion for and expertise in providing care to women needing support with challenges related to parenting, pregnancy or postpartum.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to best fit the unique needs of my clients; including ACT, DBT, relational, narrative, and cognitive approaches, in addition to play, sand tray and art therapy techniques.
It takes so much strength and courage to reach out and ask for help; for yourself, your child or your family. I care deeply about creating a safe, trusting non judgemental space for you to be able to explore, reflect, have some relief and feel better. I believe in a fully collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy and will join you wherever you are in your journey. I specialize in working with children, teens and adults going through challenging/pivotal life transitions. I have a special passion for and expertise in providing care to women needing support with challenges related to parenting, pregnancy or postpartum.
(707) 730-2563 View (707) 730-2563
Photo of Sierra Poppe, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sierra Poppe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to develop healthy emotional regulation.
I work with clients ages 13 and older, individuals and families. Primarily, I work with clients experiencing issues with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, self-harm, identity development, parenting issues, parent/child relationships, alcohol/drug abuse by teens and adults, recovery and rehab issues and reestablishment in the family, codependence (and family members affected by ones substance use), bipolar disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, supporting medication management, as well as many other concerns.
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to develop healthy emotional regulation.
I work with clients ages 13 and older, individuals and families. Primarily, I work with clients experiencing issues with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, self-harm, identity development, parenting issues, parent/child relationships, alcohol/drug abuse by teens and adults, recovery and rehab issues and reestablishment in the family, codependence (and family members affected by ones substance use), bipolar disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, relationship issues, supporting medication management, as well as many other concerns.
(628) 258-6872 View (628) 258-6872
Photo of Kim D Shippey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim D Shippey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Level 1 and 2 iRest (integrative yoga Nidra meditation).
Asking for help is difficult and I acknowledge your effort in reaching out. I have many years experience working with a diverse population.
I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) and Level 1 and 2 iRest (integrative yoga Nidra meditation).
Asking for help is difficult and I acknowledge your effort in reaching out. I have many years experience working with a diverse population.
(707) 926-4820 View (707) 926-4820
Photo of Caitlin Wicks, PsyD, Psychologist
Caitlin Wicks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
I individualize treatment, weaving Relational, Jungian, and Expressive Arts Therapy with CBT, DBT and ACT based on your needs.
I am here to tell you, you are not broken, even if your mind may tell you so. When we are anxious or in despair, we can’t think straight or engage our usual survival strategies. It can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. We can't make sense of the distorted thoughts alone. We need a therapist to help guide us. I often help young women who are feeling shy, anxious, obsessive, depressed, struggling with perfectionism or life transitions. I enjoy helping girls and women achieve developmentally appropriate social-emotional, verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
I individualize treatment, weaving Relational, Jungian, and Expressive Arts Therapy with CBT, DBT and ACT based on your needs.
I am here to tell you, you are not broken, even if your mind may tell you so. When we are anxious or in despair, we can’t think straight or engage our usual survival strategies. It can impact our health, body, emotions, relationships, perception of self and reality. We can't make sense of the distorted thoughts alone. We need a therapist to help guide us. I often help young women who are feeling shy, anxious, obsessive, depressed, struggling with perfectionism or life transitions. I enjoy helping girls and women achieve developmentally appropriate social-emotional, verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
(415) 649-5373 View (415) 649-5373
Photo of Katherine Pearson - Kate Pearson, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Pearson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment-based therapies, and practice from a trauma-informed approach.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
I have extensive training in DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic and attachment-based therapies, and practice from a trauma-informed approach.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
(415) 853-3850 View (415) 853-3850
Photo of Julie Miknis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Miknis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in DBT, RO- DBT and CBT for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. In a confidential, caring, and supportive environment, my goal as a therapist is to help clients work through the struggles they face that hold them back from living a life of happiness, purpose, and meaning.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in DBT, RO- DBT and CBT for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. In a confidential, caring, and supportive environment, my goal as a therapist is to help clients work through the struggles they face that hold them back from living a life of happiness, purpose, and meaning.
(415) 943-4537 View (415) 943-4537
Photo of Karin Glans, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karin Glans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94955  (Online Only)
I serve California based clients only via Telehealth video platforms, and have specialized training in Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT therapy.
Hello. My name is Karin Glans, and I offer strength based, compassionate, and non- judgmental therapy for my clients to create the satisfying life and relationships they desire. I focus on empowering individuals, couples, and families to develop their unique potential, explore emotions, unmet needs, and learn life skills that can increase personal and interpersonal growth. Choosing to change is a difficult and courageous choice. I look forward to helping you to develop a deeper, more positive connection with yourself, family, friends, and your life goals. I currently only work with CA clients , via Telehealth sessions. Take care.
I serve California based clients only via Telehealth video platforms, and have specialized training in Mindfulness, CBT, and DBT therapy.
Hello. My name is Karin Glans, and I offer strength based, compassionate, and non- judgmental therapy for my clients to create the satisfying life and relationships they desire. I focus on empowering individuals, couples, and families to develop their unique potential, explore emotions, unmet needs, and learn life skills that can increase personal and interpersonal growth. Choosing to change is a difficult and courageous choice. I look forward to helping you to develop a deeper, more positive connection with yourself, family, friends, and your life goals. I currently only work with CA clients , via Telehealth sessions. Take care.
(760) 412-5094 View (760) 412-5094
Photo of Michelle Hardeman-Guptill Now Offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, CCHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hardeman-Guptill Now Offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Petaluma, CA 94952
I may sprinkle in TF-CBT, EFT, MI, DBT, & Clinical Hypnotherapy w/creative/experiential exercises.
Today, I encourage you to consider an alternative future. One where you are at peace with yourself. Where the light and dark within you are both accepted unconditionally and you remember who you were before the beliefs that currently limit you were formed. I strive to help others separate themselves from their problems, including significant symptoms and behaviors. You HAVE a problem. YOU are not a Problem. For the last 15 years I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and their families. Ready to dive deep and make a change? Let's talk!
I may sprinkle in TF-CBT, EFT, MI, DBT, & Clinical Hypnotherapy w/creative/experiential exercises.
Today, I encourage you to consider an alternative future. One where you are at peace with yourself. Where the light and dark within you are both accepted unconditionally and you remember who you were before the beliefs that currently limit you were formed. I strive to help others separate themselves from their problems, including significant symptoms and behaviors. You HAVE a problem. YOU are not a Problem. For the last 15 years I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and their families. Ready to dive deep and make a change? Let's talk!
(707) 317-1405 View (707) 317-1405
Photo of Arianna Escobar, LPCC
Arianna Escobar
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94954
I utilize a person-centered approach and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Hello, my name is Arianna Escobar I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I provide plenty of space for clients to share their stories and process through current and past problems that are affecting them. I work with young adults and specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
I utilize a person-centered approach and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Hello, my name is Arianna Escobar I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I provide plenty of space for clients to share their stories and process through current and past problems that are affecting them. I work with young adults and specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
(925) 371-9918 View (925) 371-9918
1
Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.